primary processing
nounUK /ˈpraɪ.mə.ri ˈprəʊ.ses.ɪŋ/
US /ˈpraɪ.mer.i ˈprɑː.ses.ɪŋ/
The first step of turning raw materials into a basic product.
Primary processing turns fresh milk into butter and cheese.
OTHER MEANINGS
2. In computing, the first stage of handling data before it is analyzed.
The computer does primary processing of the sensor readings before sending them to the server.
3. In food production, the cleaning and preparing of raw food right after harvest or slaughter.
Primary processing of the wheat removes dirt and husks before milling.
4. In economics, the sector that turns natural resources into simple goods.
Mining and logging are examples of primary processing industries.